Generally, all carriers measure text messages in character batches or segments. If you are using Aloware Broadcast or Sequence to send an SMS or send a single SMS to an Aloware contact, then you should understand how segments work and how it affects the SMS usage cost.
What is an SMS Segment?
In general, most text messages have a 160-character limit.
But what happens when you send longer messages?
Since the 160-character limit may not be enough when running campaigns or marketing initiatives, longer messages will be divided into "segments" with a 153-character per sending. The recipient will still receive the message in the correct order.
For example, if you send a 163-character SMS, it will be split into two: one with 153 characters and the other one with ten characters.
However, if you use special characters, the limit will decrease to a 70-character limit with the 63-character segment.
Aloware supports a 1600-character limit or ten segments, but for better SMS delivery, it is recommended to limit your messaging to 306-character only. For MMS, 1600 characters are considered as one segment.
How does it affect the cost of SMS messaging?
Aloware bills the SMS usage per segment sent because this is how mobile carriers charge their rates.
If you are not familiar with messaging segments, you may wonder why you are charged for what appears to be a higher messaging cost. The charges for each number of characters are listed below.
160 characters | One segment | charged one segment |
161-306 characters | Two segments | charged two segments |
307-459 characters | Three segments | charged three segments |
It is best to plan your message campaign with the message segment in mind. When sending longer messages is required, then it's best to consider the additional costs.